Absolutely Mental stacked light logoRicky Gervais / Sam Harris
Ricky Gervais and Sam Harris

In this new audio series, the Golden Globe- and Emmy-winning actor, director, and writer Ricky Gervais phones his favorite smart friend, the neuroscientist and philosopher Sam Harris, to ask some very important questions...and some not-so-important ones.

Gervais and Harris contemplate the wonders of science and the chaos of modern life while having many good laughs.

Episodes
  • 1

    The Human Brain (but mostly other stuff)

    Ricky and Sam kick off season 3 by discussing art and imperfection, human cognition, and Ricky’s bicep gains.

  • 2

    Accepting Determinism

    Ricky asks Sam why subjective experience doesn’t always match up with his understanding of determinism. They discuss determinism’s role in the justice system, the importance of luck, and getting crushed to death by an avalanche while shagging a chicken.

  • 3

    Why is our species so successful?

    Ricky and Sam discuss human communication, wealth taxes, and effective charitable giving. Ricky pledges to leave all of his money to chimps.

  • 4

    How do genetic mutations work?

    Ricky and Sam delve into evolution, genetic mutations, and their implications in modern society. They cite a lack of deodorant as a deterrent for time traveling to the past.